Security and your Apple ID - Apple Support (2024)

FAQs

Does Apple send text messages about Apple ID? ›

SMS two-factor authentication codes

Apple may send text messages to users as two-factor authentication codes if the user cannot get notified in any other way. Other than that, Apple never sends ordinary plain-text messages.

Signs that your Apple ID has been compromised

Apple notified you (notification or email) about accounty activity that you don't recognize (for example, if your Apple ID was used to sign in to a device that you don't recognize or your password was changed but you didn't change it).

You or someone else might have entered your password or other account information incorrectly too many times. To regain access, you need to reset your password.

Fake alerts usually breach a system through pop-ups, not system notifications. Apple rarely contacts you via email regarding security. Apple official emails do not insist that you download a file or click a link.

If you're running iOS 16 or later, see How Safety Check on iPhone works to keep you safe. Check which devices are signed in to your Apple ID by going to Settings > [your name]. If you see a device you don't recognize, tap on that device name and select “Remove from Account.”

Signs Your iPhone is Being Accessed Remotely

If you're locked out of your Apple ID, see your camera or microphone turn on without your input, or find apps you didn't install, your iPhone may be hacked. You may also see strange messages you didn't send or notice your phone is hot, running slow, or crashing often.

If you're running iOS 16 or later, see How Safety Check on iPhone works to keep you safe. Check which devices are signed in to your Apple ID by going to Settings > [your name]. If you see a device you don't recognize, tap on that device name and select “Remove from Account.”

Is the Apple security alert real? No, the Apple security alert is not real. Apple doesn't really send security warnings, so every instance you see of this on your macOS or iOS device is a scam. Never click on these or call any number associated with the pop-up.

Does Apple security send you notifications? ›

No, Apple does not send virus warnings through pop-ups or messages, so such alerts are fake and likely part of a scam. However, Apple provides built-in security measures, like XProtect on macOS, which scans for malware, and on iOS, it uses App Sandboxing and the App Store Approval system to protect against threats.

With control of your Apple ID, hackers can see your personal information and track your location — as well as the locations of your connected friends — along with the locations of your devices (including AirPods and AirTags). They can see iCloud content, including photos and crypto wallet backups.

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According to Apple, “After multiple unsuccessful attempts to unlock your account, your Apple ID will remain locked, and you can try the next day again.” In other words, you get to enjoy a 24-hour stint in Apple jail.

From your device's Lock Screen, try to enter your passcode until the "[Device] Unavailable" screen appears and your device asks you to try again later. When you're able to, tap the Forgot Passcode? option in the bottom corner of the screen. On the Security Lockout screen, tap Start [Device] Reset to confirm.

You'll get a text message or phone call from Apple with your verification code. This text message might include an additional domain validation line. This line includes the @ symbol, the website name, and your code (for example: @icloud.com #123456 %apple.com). Enter the code on your other device to complete sign in.

Someone may be trying to sign your Apple ID, which would generate the request for a verification code. Since you have 2 Factor Authentication enabled, as long as they can't access one of your trusted devices, they can't get a code, and sign in. You should be okay.

In general, there are a few reasons leading to the issue that Apple ID Verification pops up constantly. You may meet this issue when your iOS devices are inactive for a long time, or they need a software update. Or sometimes, it is likely to be caused by a simple technical glitch or improper iCloud Settings.

From the Devices section of your Apple ID account page, you can find all of the devices that you're currently signed in to with your Apple ID, including Android devices, consoles, and smart TVs: Sign in to appleid.apple.com,* then select Devices.